DISTEMPER - NOT A NEW DISEASE IN LIONS AND TIGERS

In light of recent canine distemper virus (CDV) epidemics, we set out to determine the historical significance of CDV infection in captive l ions and tigers in Switzerland. The retrospective case material consis ted of 42 lion and tiger necropsy cases from 1972 to 1992. Necropsy re ports for all lions and tigers were reviewed. All existing paraffin ti ssues were immunohistochemically examined with a polyclonal antibody r aised against CDV, The results for 19 of the 42 lions and tigers were classified as positive by immunohistochemistry; 23 results were negati ve or questionable. The results for four animals (three positive and o ne negative) were further tested by in situ hybridization, and the res ults concurred with the immunohistochemistry findings. CDV infection o f large cats is older and more widespread than previously thought. All large cats in captivity should be immunized even if canine distemper is not believed to be a problem for large cats in the area.